Maximum security for World Cup participants

Yasaratne GAMAGE

The Police, Army, STF and Air Force will provide maximum security during the International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup which will be held from February 20 to March 29 in Sri Lanka, said Senior Deputy Inspector General N K Illangakoon.

The ICC Cricket World Cup, the third biggest sporting event in the world is held in Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh. Players, ICC match officials, volunteer helpers, foreign visitors, media personnel and cricket fans will be in Sri Lanka during the tournament.

SDIG Illangakoon told the Daily News that it was a massive responsibility vested on all security personnel.

The Police will play a major role while the Army and STF will give their support. The Air Force will provide air support if an emergency arises, he said. SDIG Illangakoon said that several meetings had been held in this regard and the final meeting will be held on January 11.

"The contingent and other security arrangements will be discussed on this day. On the direction of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, a 24 hour maximum security arrangement will be inforce," he said. Sri Lanka, West Indies, Netherlands, Zimbabwe, Australia, Kenya, Canada, New Zealand and Pakistan will play in Colombo, Kandy and Hambantota.